2nd Opinion

[ACMuse]

Hi.  I just was given the results of my thyroid biopsy today.  They were indifferent.  My ENT says they cannot distinguish between follicular lesion or follicular neoplasm.  He says there is only a 20 percent cancer rate.  He also says because of my family history of thyroid cancer (sister papillary, great aunt, uncle medullary) and thyroid goiters, aunt, cousins and grandpa on both sides, hemi-thyroidectomy is recommended.  My nodule is very small at 1 cm.  I have another very small nodule of 6.6 x 6.8mm that is not growing on the same side, the right.  Both lobes are 5.4 cm and all blood tests are normal.  My husband and I are comfortable with this decision but we wanted to know if this is being too aggresive?  Any input would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

This is a small nodule, however the family history is concerning.  It lobectomy may be the best and most reasonable approach.  Another option would be to consider molecular marker testing however these are in very early stages of clinical availability and have not been widely vetted for such a situation.

Sometimes sending the slides from your most recent biopsy for expert second opinion can clarify the diagnosis and help with surgery decision making.

[ACMuse]

Thank you for your time.  We appreciate your reply.